Anxiety Disorders
Anxiety disorder is excessive worrying that makes it hard to live your life normally.
causes
Anxiety disorders are complex. They can be caused by a combination of different factors, including:
Genetics
Anxiety disorders can run in families. If a parent or grandparent has a specific type of anxiety, there’s a chance you may develop it as well.
Brain Chemistry
Imbalances in brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine can play a role in anxiety. This affects mood and stress response in ways that make it harder to feel calm and in control.
Life Stressors
Major life changes—like moving, losing a job, or the death of a loved one—can trigger anxiety. Even ongoing stress from work or relationships can cause anxiety.
Trauma or Abuse
Experiencing trauma, especially during childhood, can increase your risk of anxiety disorders later in life.
Health Issues
Some medical conditions, such as thyroid problems, heart disease, or respiratory issues, can cause or worsen anxiety.
Substance Abuse
The misuse of alcohol or drugs can bring on anxiety or make existing symptoms worse. Plus, withdrawal from certain substances can trigger anxiety.
Types of Anxiety disorders
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
This occurs when worry becomes a part of your daily life. Even everyday situations—like running errands or meeting a deadline—always feel overwhelming.
Panic Disorder
Panic attacks seem to strike out of the blue, often with no clear trigger. You may feel a sudden wave of intense fear, heart palpitations, and shortness of breath. Afterward, you might worry about when it will happen again.
Social Anxiety Disorder
This is the fear of being judged or embarrassing yourself around others. It can make even simple interactions—like talking to a stranger or attending a party—feel scary.
Specific Phobias
These are fears of specific things or situations. Heights, spiders, and flying are common phobias. Just thinking about these things can make you feel anxious.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
People with OCD experience frequent thoughts (obsessions) that lead to repetitive actions or rituals (compulsions) to help them feel better. For example, they might wash their hands over and over or keep checking if the stove is off. This can make it hard to focus on anything else.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
PTSD can happen after experiencing or witnessing a traumatic event. Flashbacks, nightmares, or anxiety are common with PTSD. Bad memories, nightmares, and intense fear can make it hard to feel safe.
Symptoms
The signs of anxiety disorders can be different for each person.
Nonstop Worry
Feeling nervous or stressed all the time, even when there’s no clear reason to be worried
Physical Symptoms
Rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, dizziness, and sweating
Panic Attacks
Sudden, strong fear that can make it hard to breathe, cause chest pain, or feel like you're losing control
Avoidance Behaviors
Staying away from certain places, people, or activities out of fear
Sleep Disturbances
Trouble falling asleep or staying
Trouble Concentrating
Finding it hard to pay attention because you're always worried
Treatment
Below are some treatments that can help ease anxiety.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT is a form of talk therapy that helps identify and change negative thoughts that make anxiety worse. It’s one of the most effective treatments for anxiety disorders and can help you feel more in control.
Medications
Sometimes, antidepressants or benzodiazepines can help manage anxiety. Medications like Zoloft or Prozac are often used for long-term anxiety. Xanax can help in the moment during intense anxiety.
Lifestyle Changes
Regular exercise, getting enough sleep, and eating well can help reduce anxiety. Exercise can help release endorphins, which are natural mood boosters.
Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing, meditation, and yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety by promoting relaxation.
Support Groups
Talking to others who understand what you’re going through can be very helpful. Support groups provide a safe space to share experiences and learn new ways to cope.
Professional Therapy
Working with a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist can help by giving you strategies to deal with anxiety both short and long term.
How We Can Help
If you’re struggling with anxiety or finding it hard to manage your symptoms, talk to your primary care provider, who will work with you to create a personalized treatment plan. This could include therapy options like CBT, lifestyle changes, and medications to manage symptoms. If you need more help, your provider might refer you to a therapist or psychiatrist.
Looking for a provider?
Find one here or call us at
866-325-0301
